CIRCUMSTANCES OF LOSSCorporal Patrick’s cruiser, USS Vincennes (CA-44), was on patrol off Savo Island in the early morning hours of 9 August, 1942. A Japanese fleet surprised the Americans, and between 0155 and 0215, the Vincennes was struck and set afire by dozens of large caliber shells. She sank at 0250.
As orderly for Captain Frederick Reifkohl, Patrick was at the senior officer’s side throughout the battle. His final duty was to pass the word to abandon ship – after departing on this mission, he was not seen again. Initially listed as missing in action, he was declared dead as of 10 August 1943.